The Ultimate Guide to Buying Bedsheets in Singapore

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Types of Bedsheets
   • Egyptian Cotton Bedsheets
   • Tencel Bedsheets
   • Linen Bedsheets
   • Microfiber Bedsheets
   • Bamboo Bedsheets
   • Silk Bedsheets
   • Satin Bedsheets
   • Cotton Percale Bedsheets
   • Jersey Bedsheets
3. Thread Count
4. Weave
5. Color and Design
6. Size
7. Care Instructions
8. Price
9. Where to Buy Bedsheets in Singapore
10. Conclusion
11. FAQs

1. Introduction

Getting a good night's sleep is essential for our physical and mental health, and choosing the right bedsheet plays a crucial role in achieving this. In Singapore's hot and humid climate, it's important to select a bedsheet that is breathable and comfortable. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about buying bedsheets in Singapore, from the different types of materials available to factors such as thread count, weave, color, size, care instructions, and price.

2. Types of Bedsheets

There are several types of bedsheets available in the market, each with its own unique properties. As it requires extensive research and development to create a new fabric and not to mention the minimum order of 20000, many retailers will often feature more common materials.

Here are some of the most common types that you can find:

Egyptian Cotton Bedsheets

Egyptian cotton is known for its luxurious feel and exceptional quality. It is a long-staple cotton that produces strong and soft fibers, making it an ideal choice for bedsheets. Egyptian cotton bedsheets are crisp, breathable, smooth and durable, which ensures a comfortable night's sleep.

Tencel Bedsheets

Tencel is a type of fabric made from eucalyptus trees. It is a sustainable and eco-friendly material that is soft and silky to the touch. Tencel bedsheets are hypoallergenic, moisture-wicking, and have natural cooling properties, making them perfect for Singapore's hot and humid climate. They are also highly durable and resistant to wrinkles.

Linen Bedsheets

Linen bedsheets are made from flax fibers and are highly breathable and lightweight. They have a natural texture that gets softer with every wash. Linen bedsheets are also highly durable and can last for many years. They can feel quite coarse when new but gets softer after use.

Microfiber Bedsheets

Microfiber bedsheets are made from synthetic fibers and are known for their affordability and durability. They are also easy to care for and wrinkle-resistant. However, they may not be as breathable as other materials, making them less ideal for Singapore's climate. Similar to satin with a polyester base, they cling to the skin when wet.

Bamboo Bedsheets

Bamboo bedsheets are made from bamboo fibers and are known for their softness and moisture-wicking properties. They are also hypoallergenic and eco-friendly. They are very similar to most Tencel sheets, however, the actual source of these fibers are difficult to trace making the quality of the bamboo unreliable due to the nature of the bamboo fiber industry.

Silk Bedsheets

Silk bedsheets are luxurious and have a smooth and silky texture. They are also hypoallergenic and great for people with sensitive skin. However, they are more delicate than other materials and require special care.

Satin Bedsheets

Satin bedsheets have a silky smooth finish and are known for their luxurious feel. They are also durable and easy to care for. However, they may not be as breathable as other materials and clings to the skin when wet. They are usually made with polyester fibers which makes it really affordable.

Cotton Percale Bedsheets

Cotton percale bedsheets are made from a plain weave cotton and are lightweight and breathable. They have a crisp feel and are durable and easy to care for. Many hotels use percale cotton sheets for its durability. However, in recent times, Cotton sateen can also be made durable and is currently the preferred choice for luxury level hotels.

Cotton Jersey Bedsheets

Jersey bedsheets are made from a knit fabric and have a stretchy and soft texture. They are also breathable and easy to care for. These sheets feel alot like stretchy T shirts and you could either love or hate them for its stretchyness. Some sleepers like the feel of the cozy texture while others may dislike it for its stretchy-ness while sleeping.

With so many options available, it's important to consider the different materials and their unique properties when choosing the right bedsheets for you.

Fabric crafters tip: While there are many materials to choose from, the best in class in terms of softness and being hypoallergenic is the Tencel/Silk. The most well balanced bedsheet would be the Egyptian cotton, taking into account all aspects of practical use, such as durability, comfort, smoothness and softness.

3. Thread Count

Thread count refers to the number of threads woven into one square inch of fabric. Since the 1930s, a popular belief was that the higher the thread count, the softer and more comfortable the bedsheet. However, a high thread count doesn't always equate to better quality.

In the current era, factors such as the type of fiber and weave tend to affect the quality of the bedsheets more so than the thread count. A thread count of 250-400 is considered good quality. Anything beyond 500-600 uses either a 2 ply or 3 ply construct to jack up the thread count. 

Also, you should take note that any thread count reported in metric system (10cm squares instead of an inch) is always higher. (eg. a 400 thread count per square inch bedsheet will be sold as a 500 thread count with the metric system)

Fabric crafters tip: In short, any thread count beyond 250 per square inch is good. For anything above 400, you should always take a second look. Ask for the specifications if it is made with 2-ply or 3-ply yarns, or if it is reported using the metric system as it can be misleading.

4. Weave

The weave of the bedsheets refers to the way the threads are interlaced. The most common weaves are percale and sateen. Percale is a plain weave that produces a crisp and cool feel. Sateen, on the other hand, is a weave that produces a silky and luxurious feel.

Fabric Crafters Tip: Most sheets on the market are sateen and percale. Weave choosing should be paired with the fibers. For example, cotton is a very durable and coarse fiber, made in plain weave, it would enhance its durability even more but sacrificing smoothness and softness in return. Making cotton in a sateen weave would give it more softness and smoothness yet being durable, giving it an overall more balanced attribute.

5. Color and Design

The color and design of the bedsheets are a matter of personal preference. However, you might want to choose a color that complements the overall decor of your bedroom. Neutral colors such as white, cream, and beige are versatile and can match any decor. Bold colors and patterns can add personality and style to your bedroom.

Fabric crafters tip: To dye a roll of fabric, the industry standard minimum is 3000 meters of fabric. You can see the scale of a store by looking at the color offerings. You could often differentiate if a shop purchases OEM (re-labelled and ready-made products) and resells by looking at their color offerings and common material.

6. Size

Bedsheets come in different sizes to fit different mattress sizes. In Singapore, the most common mattress sizes are single, queen, and king. Make sure to measure your mattress before purchasing a bedsheet to ensure a perfect fit.

Purchase sheets made for your mattress size so that you get a snug fit. The are brands who sell international sizing in different countries to save on cost, if you have a standard Singapore mattress (eg. Queen - 153cm x 191cm), you'll find the international size (153cm x 204cm) to be too large for you.

Fabric Crafters Tip: Bedsheets are usually made just slightly larger so that it can account for shrinkage when you do a warm-hot wash so don’t worry if they come out a tad bit bigger (1-3cm). Natural fabrics will always shrink unless they have been treated with chemicals.

7. Care Instructions

Different types of bedsheets require different care instructions. Always check the label before washing your bedsheets. Egyptian cotton and Tencel bedsheets require gentle washing and avoiding tumble drying, or tumble drying on low heat if you have to (remove promptly when done). Linen bedsheets can be machine washed on a gentle cycle, while microfiber bedsheets can be machine washed and tumble dried on low heat.

Fabric Crafters Tip: Most bedsheets are not required to be washed in high heat (above 40 deg) unless you are washing soiled sheets. Detergents are enough to take care of most day to day uses. Avoid softeners as they will linger in your sheets after wash even if they smell nice. Indoor hang-dry is always the best method. If you absolutely have to tumble dry, you should remove it as soon as it is done to avoid baking your sheets, causing your fibers to dry up. 

8. Price

Bedsheets come in a wide range of prices. Egyptian cotton and Tencel bedsheets are typically more expensive than other materials, but they are also highly durable and provide exceptional comfort. Linen bedsheets are also relatively expensive but are highly durable and can last for many years. Microfiber bedsheets are the most affordable option, but they may not be as breathable as other materials.

Fabric Crafters Tip: Quality does not always mean expensive, and expensive does not always suit your preferences. It is ultimately up to the retailer and your own preferences.

9. Where to Buy Bedsheets in Singapore

There are several places to buy bedsheets in Singapore. Department stores such as Robinsons and Takashimaya carry a wide range of bedsheets from different brands. Specialty stores such as MUJI and Akemi also offer a variety of options. 

You can also shop online at our bedding store. You can find unique materials that we have engineered and neutral toned colors that are exclusive to our store.

10. Conclusion

Choosing the right bedsheets is essential for a good night's sleep. By considering factors such as material, thread count, weave, size, color and design, care instructions, and price, you can make an informed decision when purchasing your next set of bedsheets. With so many options available in Singapore, finding the perfect bedsheet has never been easier.

11. Are satin bedsheets breathable?

• Satin bedsheets may not be as breathable as other materials, so they may not be the best option for hot and humid climates.

12. How do I choose the right size of bedsheets for my mattress?

• Measure your mattress before purchasing a bedsheet to ensure a perfect fit. Singapore mattress sizes are smaller than our European and international counterparts.

13. How do I care for my bedsheets?

• Different types of bedsheets require different care instructions. Always check the label before washing your bedsheets. Egyptian cotton and Tencel bedsheets require gentle washing and hang drying (Only tumble in low heat when required). Linen bedsheets can be machine washed on a gentle cycle, while microfiber bedsheets can be machine washed and tumble dried on low heat.

14. What is the best type of bedsheet for Singapore's hot and humid climate?

• Tencel and bamboo bedsheets are both great options for Singapore's hot and humid climate. They are both breathable and moisture-wicking, which helps to regulate body temperature and keep you cool and comfortable. Egyptian Cotton in Sateen weave works well as it is breathable and cooling.

15. Can I return my bedsheets if I am not satisfied with them?

• It depends on the store's return policy. Always check the store's return policy before making a purchase to ensure that you can return or exchange your bedsheets if you are not satisfied with them. 
• At Oak & Sand, we offer a 30 day return guarantee which you can ask to have your sheets returned for a full refund, even if used and washed. The sheets are then donated to charity or recycled with textile recycling companies.

16. How do I prevent my bedsheets from wrinkling?

• Remove your bedsheets from the dryer promptly and fold them neatly. If they are still wrinkled, you can iron them on a low heat setting.

17. Are linen bedsheets hypoallergenic?

• Yes, linen bedsheets are naturally hypoallergenic and are a great option for people with allergies or sensitive skin.

18. Can I bleach my bedsheets to remove stains?

• It's not recommended to bleach your bedsheets, as it can damage the fabric and cause discoloration. Instead, try using a stain remover or soaking them in a mixture of baking soda and water before washing.

19. What is the difference between percale and sateen weave?

• Percale is a plain weave that produces a crisp and cool feel, while sateen is a weave that produces a silky and luxurious feel.

20. Can I use fabric softener on my bedsheets?

• It's not recommended to use fabric softener on your bedsheets, as it can damage the fabric and reduce their absorbency. Instead, try using wool dryer balls or vinegar as a natural fabric softener.